Chinese medicine is not linear, and its benefits extend far beyond this list of conditions. It is an individualised and dynamic approach that considers the whole person: body, mind, and lifestyle.

Practised for thousands of years it is one of the world’s oldest systems of medicine, with ancient texts detailing its use for a wide range of health concerns. While modern research is important, Chinese medicine has long been used for its healing, preventative, and transformative approach to wellness.

According to the Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA) and research reviews like The Acupuncture Evidence Project, acupuncture has been shown to be beneficial for a range of health conditions.

Conditions with Strong Evidence

High-quality research supports acupuncture for:

  • Chronic lower back pain

  • Migraine prevention

  • Tension headaches

  • Knee osteoarthritis

  • Postoperative pain relief

Conditions with Moderate Evidence

There is positive research suggesting acupuncture may help with:

  • Anxiety and stress

  • Depression

  • Neck pain

  • Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea)

  • Nausea and vomiting (related to chemotherapy, pregnancy, or post-surgery)

  • Shoulder pain

  • Tennis elbow

  • Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)

  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain

While these areas show promising results, additional studies could further strengthen the evidence base.

Conditions with Emerging Evidence

Preliminary research suggests acupuncture may support:

  • Fertility and IVF

  • Insomnia and sleep issues

  • Menopausal symptoms (such as hot flushes)

  • Digestive issues (including IBS, bloating, and constipation)

  • Fatigue and low energy

  • Conditions like fibromyalgia

  • Chronic pain syndromes

More research is needed, but early findings are encouraging.

What the research says

The thing is, Chinese medicine has never been just about treating specific conditions, it’s about balance, prevention, and supporting the body as a whole. 

While research is catching up, this is an ancient medicine that has been helping people for thousands of years. It works alongside modern healthcare to offer a different way of looking at health, one that sees you as a whole person, not just a collection of symptoms.